Together

The recall of Parliament, and the plethora of discussions at all levels about the causes and remedies for the recent riots, have all pointed in one direction. We are in this mess together, and together we must work on solutions.
While many who were involved in the looting may now be facing the consequences of getting caught and punished, the rest of us may be wondering how corporate responsibility may be at the roots of the events of the last week. These difficulties provide us with an opportunity to learn to work together across social and cultural divisions, in order to make a difference.
Jesus' day was not that different from our own, in that many opinion-makers were happy to generate a 'them and us' analysis of their own time. The 'us' group were sure that they were OK, and that the problems in society were all caused by 'them'.
Jesus had a challenging response to such an analysis. 'But when the teachers of religious law who were Pharisees saw Jesus eating with tax collectors and other sinners, they asked his disciples, “Why does he eat with such scum?”
When Jesus heard this, he told them, “Healthy people don’t need a doctor—sick people do. I have come to call not those who think they are righteous, but those who know they are sinners.” (Mark 2.16-17)
We would all find it easier to see the problems in society as caused by other people. But Jesus points out that we are all in this together. The only ones He is able to help are those who accept his diagnosis.
Which side of the divide are you on? Are you sick, needing the help of Doctor Jesus, or do you think you are OK?
Best wishes,
Richard